Repeated neonaticide: differences and similarities to single neonaticide events

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychology
• Reproductive Health
• Criminology

Background:

• Filicide, the act of killing one's own child, presents distinct patterns between single and repeat offenses.
• Understanding these differences is crucial for targeted prevention and intervention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To differentiate characteristics of single versus repeat filicide perpetrators using comprehensive register data.
• To identify specific risk factors associated with repeat neonaticide cases.

Main Methods:

• Utilized comprehensive, nationwide register-based data from Austria and Finland.
• Analyzed data from 23 female perpetrators (20 single, 3 repeat) and 28 neonaticide victims (all ≤24 hours old).

Main Results:

• Repeat perpetrators were older, had more children, and were more likely to be in established family structures.
• Repeat offenders demonstrated higher education, employment, and a greater prevalence of personality disorders.
• Stress during pregnancy was more frequently identified by repeat offenders; low awareness of pregnancy in their social circle was a notable risk factor.

Conclusions:

• Repeat filicide perpetrators exhibit distinct demographic and psychosocial profiles compared to single perpetrators.
• The social circle's awareness of pregnancy is a critical, yet often overlooked, risk factor, especially in repeat neonaticide cases.
• Interpersonal relationship quality may be influenced by mental health and life experiences in these individuals.